The Indonesian Pencak Silat team has officially departed for the 20th World Pencak Silat Championship in Abu Dhabi, set to take place from December 18-22, 2024. The athlete send-off ceremony was held on Friday evening at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jakarta, where Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Pencak Silat Association (PB IPSI), Sugiono, expressed his pride and confidence in the athletes who will represent Indonesia on the world stage.
In his speech, Sugiono highlighted the significance of this championship beyond the realm of sports, emphasizing the athletes’ role as cultural and diplomatic ambassadors for Indonesia. “In the current global climate, with conflicts and uncertainties in many parts of the world, this event offers an opportunity for Indonesia to showcase its unity, strength, and cultural richness through Pencak Silat,” Sugiono remarked. “You are not just athletes; you are the ambassadors of Indonesia’s diplomacy in both sports and culture.”
The athletes, who come from various regions of Indonesia and have undergone months of intensive training, were reminded by Sugiono that they are not only competing but also carrying the pride of the nation. He urged them to represent Indonesia with honor, while serving as role models for sports diplomacy. “Amid global tensions, your performance on the world stage can shine as a symbol of peace, cooperation, and mutual respect,” Sugiono said.
In his message, Sugiono also conveyed the well wishes of Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto, who also serves as Chairman of PB IPSI. “President Prabowo has asked me to remind you to take pride in representing Indonesia. Show courage, uphold the spirit of cooperation, and bring honor to the Red and White flag,” Sugiono added.
The Minister also encouraged the athletes to reach out to their families for blessings before heading to Abu Dhabi, further reinforcing the importance of familial support in their journey.
Sports Diplomacy and Olympic Aspirations
During the ceremony, Minister of Youth and Sports, Dito Ariotedjo, also addressed the athletes, urging them to compete not only for personal glory but as representatives of the nation. “Sports is a powerful form of diplomacy. You, as athletes, are key to bringing Pencak Silat to the global forefront and, ultimately, to the Olympic stage,” said Dito. “Make the world take notice, and compete with sportsmanship and pride. Welcome all athletes with warmth and respect.”
The Indonesian delegation to the World Pencak Silat Championship in Abu Dhabi includes hundreds of athletes, coaches, and officials, with participants drawn from various regions of the country. Among the athletes are several gold medalists from the 2024 PON XXI National Games and the 2024 Junior National Championships, all of whom have undergone rigorous training in preparation for the competition.
In addition to the competition, Indonesia will also be sending a large group of performers who will take part in the opening ceremony, further showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the nation.
A Strong Contingent for Global Competition
The 20th World Pencak Silat Championship is expected to draw participants from dozens of countries, making it one of the most significant events on the international Pencak Silat calendar. The competition will feature various categories, with Indonesia aiming to continue its dominance in this martial art, which is deeply rooted in the nation’s culture and traditions.
The athletes, who have trained for months under the supervision of top coaches, will compete in both individual and team categories. With a legacy of excellence in Pencak Silat, Indonesia hopes to defend its title and bring home multiple gold medals, reaffirming its position as the leading nation in the sport.
The championship, which will be held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, will also serve as an important platform for promoting Pencak Silat internationally, with hopes of eventually securing a place for the sport in the Olympic Games. The Indonesian government and Pencak Silat leaders have long advocated for the inclusion of this traditional martial art in the Olympics, viewing the World Championship as a key step in that direction.
Looking Ahead
As the Indonesian contingent departs for Abu Dhabi, the nation’s hopes are high, not only for athletic achievement but also for fostering greater international awareness of Pencak Silat. The 20th World Championship will undoubtedly be a momentous occasion for the sport and a proud chapter in Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to promote its cultural heritage globally.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Youth and Sports continue to support this endeavor, highlighting the integral role of sports as a tool for diplomacy and international engagement. The Indonesian delegation is expected to make a strong impression both in the competition and in their cultural performances, contributing to the continued global recognition of Pencak Silat.